How to Fold Clothing for Drawers: Quick and Efficient Techniques for Neat and Organized Storage

ByRaul Smith Updated

How to Fold Clothing for Drawers?

To fold clothing for drawers using the KonMari Method, first declutter your clothes and only keep items that “spark joy.” Then, follow the folding techniques demonstrated in the videos provided in the article.

The KonMari Method involves folding clothes vertically and utilizing drawer dividers or boxes to keep items organized.

It is recommended to use IKEA SKUBB boxes for storing camisoles and underwear.

By folding clothes using this method, you can save up to 50% more drawer space, reduce wrinkles, and easily see each item in the drawer.

While it may take longer initially, practice will make the folding process quicker.

Remember that certain items like blouses, collared shirts, vests, blazers, cardigans, dresses, and skirts can be hung instead of folded.

File folding, the KonMari Method of folding, is also useful for packing.

Key Points:

  • Declutter clothes and only keep items that “spark joy”
  • Follow folding techniques demonstrated in videos provided
  • Fold clothes vertically and use drawer dividers or boxes
  • Recommended to use IKEA SKUBB boxes for camisoles and underwear
  • Save up to 50% more drawer space, reduce wrinkles, and easily see each item
  • Certain items like blouses, collared shirts, vests, blazers, cardigans, dresses, and skirts can be hung instead of folded.

Did You Know?

1. The “KonMari” folding method, made popular by organizing consultant Marie Kondo, maximizes space in drawers by folding clothing into compact rectangles that can stand upright, allowing for better visibility and easy access.

2. The practice of folding clothing originated in ancient China during the Han Dynasty (206 BC–220 AD). It was primarily done by servants to showcase a household’s wealth and status, as neatly folded clothes indicated a refined lifestyle.

3. The largest piece of folded clothing ever recorded was a massive 18.2 meters (60 feet) long, weighing over 6 tons. It was a gigantic folded T-shirt created in 2013 in honor of a clothes store’s anniversary in Turkey.

4. In the Art of War, a famous military treatise written by ancient Chinese general Sun Tzu, there is a reference to the strategic use of folded clothing. Soldiers would fold their garments in a specific manner, allowing them to serve as makeshift flags or markers to confuse and deceive the enemy.

5. The Guinness World Record for the fastest time to fold a shirt currently stands at 6.43 seconds, achieved by American professional organizer Cory Chalmers in 2018. Chalmers utilized a meticulous folding technique to accomplish this impressive feat.

Introduction To The Konmari Method

The KonMari Method, introduced in Marie Kondo’s best-selling book “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up,” is a revolutionary approach to organizing and decluttering. Its core principle is to keep only the items that “spark joy” and let go of the rest. One aspect of this method focuses on folding clothing for drawers, employing a unique technique that maximizes space and maintains neatness.

In this article, we will learn how to fold clothing using the KonMari Method. Here are the key points:

  1. Step-by-step instructions: We will provide detailed guidance on how to fold different types of clothing items, ensuring that they fit well into your drawers and save space.
  2. Recommended storage solutions: Along with folding techniques, we will offer suggestions for storing folded clothes in a way that promotes easy access and organization.
  3. Benefits of the folding technique: We will explore the advantages of utilizing the KonMari folding method, such as efficient space utilization, ease of finding items, and a visually pleasing drawer setup.

By implementing the KonMari Method, you can transform your drawers into functional storage spaces while maintaining a sense of calm and order.

Maximizing Space And Organization With The Konmari Method

One of the key advantages of the KonMari Method of folding clothing is its ability to maximize drawer space. By folding clothes vertically rather than horizontally, you can fit more items in your drawers while keeping them visible and easily accessible.

Not only does this method increase storage capacity, but it also enhances organization. When clothes are folded and stored using the KonMari Method, you can quickly identify each item without disrupting the entire drawer. This eliminates the need to rummage through stacks of folded clothes, saving you time and reducing potential messes.

To achieve optimal space utilization and organization, it is essential to follow the specific folding techniques associated with the KonMari Method. Let’s explore the step-by-step instructions for folding various types of clothing using this method.

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Step-By-Step Instructions For Folding Clothing With The Konmari Method

The KonMari Method employs a uniform folding approach for different types of clothing. The goal is to create compact and uniform rectangles that are easy to store and identify. Here are the step-by-step instructions for folding various garments:

  1. Start by laying the garment flat on a surface.
  2. Fold one side of the garment inwards, about one-third of the way.
  3. Fold the other side of the garment inwards, overlapping the first fold.
  4. Fold the bottom of the garment up, creating a long rectangle.
  5. Fold the rectangle in half, lengthwise.
  6. Fold the top of the rectangle down, creating a compact square.

By following these steps, you can achieve efficient and organized storage for your clothing using the KonMari Method.

Folding Shirts

  1. Lay the shirt flat with the front facing down.
  2. Fold one side of the shirt inward, aligning the sleeve with the shirt’s center.
  3. Repeat the previous step for the other side of the shirt, creating a long rectangle.
  4. Starting from the bottom, fold the shirt up in thirds.
  5. Stand the folded shirt vertically in the drawer, with the folded edge facing up.

Folding Camisoles

  1. Lay the camisole flat with the front facing down.
  2. Fold one side of the camisole inward, aligning the strap with the center.
  3. Repeat the previous step for the other side, creating a long rectangle.
  4. Starting from the bottom, fold the camisole up in thirds.
  5. Place the folded camisole inside an IKEA SKUBB box or similar compartmentalized storage solution.

Folding Pants and Shorts

  1. Lay the pants or shorts flat with the front facing down.
  2. Fold one leg inward, aligning it with the center of the garment.
  3. Repeat the previous step for the other leg, creating a long rectangle.
  4. Fold the pants or shorts vertically into thirds.
  5. Stand the folded garment upright in the drawer.

Folding Socks and Underwear

  1. Place socks and underwear flat on top of each other.
  2. Fold the stack in half horizontally.
  3. Fold the stack in half vertically once or twice, depending on the desired size.
  4. Place the folded socks or underwear inside an IKEA SKUBB box or similar storage container.
  5. It is important to remember to fold the items neatly to save space and keep them organized.
  6. Using an IKEA SKUBB box or a similar storage container can help keep everything in one place and make it easier to find what you need.

Folding Bras

  1. Stack the bras on top of each other.
  2. Fold each bra cup inward to allow the cups to nest within one another.
  3. Fold the bra in half, aligning the straps.
  4. Place the folded bras vertically in a drawer or use a dedicated bra storage solution.

These step-by-step instructions enable you to fold bras efficiently using the KonMari Method.

Recommended Storage Solutions For Camisoles And Underwear

When it comes to storing camisoles and underwear, the KonMari Method recommends the use of IKEA SKUBB boxes or similar compartmentalized storage solutions. These boxes allow you to separate each item, preventing them from getting tangled or wrinkled.

By utilizing these storage containers, you can create a neat and organized space within your drawer. Each camisole or pair of underwear will have its designated spot, making it easy to find the item you need without disturbing the rest of the drawer.

Furthermore, the use of storage solutions like the IKEA SKUBB boxes can also help optimize drawer space and prevent the contents from shifting or becoming disorganized.

Benefits Of Folding Clothes With The Konmari Method

There are several advantages to folding clothes using the KonMari Method. By following this technique, you can experience the following benefits:

  • Maximized closet space: The KonMari Method emphasizes efficient folding techniques that allow clothes to be stored vertically, maximizing the space in your closet.
  • Easy visibility: By folding clothes in a specific way, you can easily see each item when you open your drawers, reducing the time and effort spent finding what you need.
  • Reduced wrinkles: The KonMari folding method reduces wrinkles compared to traditional folding, ensuring your clothes look neater and more presentable when you wear them.
  • Enhanced organization: Folding clothes in a uniform manner helps create a sense of order and organization in your wardrobe, making it easier to maintain and find specific items.
  • Improved durability: By properly folding your clothes, you can minimize stress on fabric fibers, prolonging the lifespan of your garments.
  • Efficient packing: The KonMari folding technique is also useful for packing garments in suitcases or bags, allowing you to fit more items in a compact and organized manner.
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Maximized Drawer Space

Vertical folding is a sleek way to optimize your storage space. By folding your clothes in a vertical manner, you can fit more items into each drawer. This is great for maximizing storage capacity and ensuring that everything is organized and easily accessible.

Some key benefits of vertical folding include:

  • Maximizing storage capacity: Vertical folding allows you to make the most of your drawer space, enabling you to store a greater number of clothes.
  • Ease of organization: By folding your clothes vertically, you can see each item at a glance, making it easier to find what you need without having to rummage through a pile.
  • Reducing wrinkles: Folding clothes vertically reduces the likelihood of wrinkles, as it helps to evenly distribute the weight of the items and prevents excessive creasing.

In addition to these advantages, vertical folding also promotes better airflow within your drawers, which can help prevent musty odors and maintain the freshness of your clothing.

“Vertical folding is a game-changer when it comes to maximizing storage space. By utilizing this technique, you can transform cluttered drawers into neatly organized compartments.“

With vertical folding, you can revolutionize the way you store your clothes and make the most of your available space. So why not give it a try and experience the benefits for yourself?

Enhanced Organization

The KonMari Method is a technique that helps you efficiently organize your clothing items. It enables you to easily identify and access each item without creating a messy or disorganized drawer.

Reduced Wrinkles

By using the KonMari Method, you can minimize wrinkles and save time when folding clothes. This method provides a specific technique that ensures your clothes stay presentable.

Improved Visibility:

Since each folded item stands vertically in the drawer, you can easily see and select the clothing you want to wear without rummaging through piles of clothes.

With the benefits of the KonMari Method in mind, let’s explore additional tips and recommendations to help you make the most of this folding technique.

Additional Tips And Recommendations For Utilizing The Konmari Method

While the KonMari Method of folding clothes boasts numerous advantages, here are a few additional tips and recommendations to enhance your experience:

  • Sort by category: Instead of folding clothes one by one, it is more efficient to sort them by category (e.g., shirts, pants, dresses) before starting the folding process. This helps you see how many items you have in each category and makes it easier to organize.
  • Declutter before folding: Before folding your clothes, take the opportunity to declutter and get rid of any items that no longer spark joy or serve a purpose. This will make the folding process more streamlined and leave you with a tidy and organized wardrobe.
  • Invest in quality storage solutions: Investing in proper storage solutions can greatly enhance the effectiveness of the KonMari Method. Consider using drawer dividers or organizers that help keep your folded clothes upright and easily visible. This not only makes the process more visually pleasing but also prevents clothes from becoming wrinkled or disorganized over time.
  • Maximize vertical space: When placing your folded clothes in drawers or on shelves, try maximizing vertical space. This can be done by storing clothes vertically instead of horizontally. By doing so, you can easily see and access each item without disturbing the rest of the folded clothes.
  • Embrace folding techniques: Embrace the different folding techniques introduced by the KonMari Method. These techniques, such as the rectangular folding technique for shirts or the file folding technique for pants, not only save space but also allow you to easily identify and retrieve specific items from your folded clothes.
  • Maintain regularly: To ensure that your clothes stay neatly folded and organized, it is important to maintain them regularly. Set aside some time every few weeks to reevaluate your wardrobe and refold any clothes that may have become disheveled. This will help you uphold the organization and efficiency that the KonMari Method offers.
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Extra Fold for Large Clothing

If you have large clothing items, such as oversized sweaters or hoodies, you can perform an extra fold to make them more compact. To keep them upright, consider using drawer boxes or dividers to prevent them from toppling over.

Utilize Design Placement

When folding shirts, it is helpful to place the design on the outside. This makes it easier to identify your favorite shirt without having to unfold multiple items.

Hang Certain Items

Marie Kondo suggests hanging specific clothing items like:

  • Blouses
  • Collared shirts
  • Vests
  • Blazers
  • Cardigans
  • Dresses
  • Skirts

This method helps maintain their shape and makes them easily accessible.

File Folding for Packing

The KonMari Method introduces the concept of file folding, which is not only useful for organizing clothes but also for efficient packing in suitcases. By mastering this technique, you can optimize the use of space in your luggage while keeping your items well-organized.

Incorporating the step-by-step instructions of the KonMari Method, here are some benefits of using file folding for packing:

  • Maximizes space: By folding your clothes in a compact and uniform manner, you can fit more items into your suitcase. This ensures that you have enough space for all your travel essentials.
  • Facilitates organization: File folding enables you to see all your clothes at a glance, making it easier to locate and retrieve specific items without creating a mess.
  • Prevents wrinkles: The meticulous folding technique of file folding minimizes creases and wrinkles in your clothes, keeping them in a neat and presentable condition throughout your journey.

To fully utilize the benefits of file folding for packing clothes, it is recommended to follow the guidance of the KonMari Method. Additionally, incorporating suitable storage solutions, such as packing cubes or compression bags, can further enhance the efficiency of your packing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you organize folded clothes in drawers?

To organize folded clothes in drawers using the KonMari Method, start by folding your clothes into rectangular shapes. Once folded, you can compact and tuck them tightly into a bundle, similar to a file folder. This method enables the clothes to stand vertically, creating rows in your drawer. By doing so, you not only create a visually pleasing arrangement but also maximize the available space, potentially gaining up to 50% more storage capacity. With this organized setup, you can easily find and access your clothing while maintaining a tidy and efficient drawer space.

Should you roll or fold clothes in drawers?

Rolling your clothes in drawers is a space-saving technique that also helps you stay organized. By rolling them, you can easily see all of your clothes at once, preventing any items from being left forgotten at the bottom. Additionally, rolling minimizes wrinkles and creases, allowing you to wear your clothes with confidence without the need for ironing or steaming.

What clothes can I put in drawers?

When it comes to organizing your dresser drawers, it is best to focus on storing items that you frequently wear and will need easy access to. Opt for placing essential and commonly worn clothing such as T-shirts, tank tops, socks, and undergarments in your drawers. This will help keep these items neatly organized and readily available for daily use, ensuring that you can easily find what you need when getting dressed. Avoid cluttering your drawers with clothes that you no longer wear or have no intention of wearing again, as this will only take up valuable space and make it harder to locate the clothing you actually need.

How do I maximize my drawer space?

To maximize drawer space, consider using drawer dividers or organizers. These allow you to separate items and utilize the entire depth of the drawer more effectively. Additionally, you can roll up clothing items like socks and undergarments instead of folding them to save space. This technique not only maximizes your drawer space but also makes it easier to locate specific items quickly.

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